Method and apparatus for suspending or adjusting billing charge for usage of electrically powered devices if abnormal or halt condition detected

ABSTRACT

An apparatus for selecting, monitoring, and controlling electrically powered devices is disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes an electrically powered device having a key operating line and switching control circuitry to control usage of the electrically powered device by interrupting continuity of the key operating line. In another embodiment, the apparatus monitors usage of an electrically powered device. The apparatus includes a circuit which is coupled to the device to provide a power output of the device, an analog to digital converter coupled to receive the power output and convert the same to digital form, and a controller to receive a user input, process the user input by establishing communication with a remotely located device to request approval of a financial transaction, and generate control signals in response to receiving approval. The controller receives the digital form of the power output and monitors the operation of the electrically powered device.

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This is a divisional of application Ser. No. 09/088,213, filed May 29,1998, which is a continuation-in-part patent application of U.S. Ser.No. 08/749,905 filed on Nov. 15, 1996 U.S. Pat. No. 5,901,067.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to a method and apparatus forselecting, monitoring, and controlling electrically powered devices.

2. Background Information

A known approach to monitoring the usage of computers and peripheraldevices is through a network. Such an approach to monitoring the statusof electrically powered equipment for the purpose of generating billingis deficient in that it is highly complicated, requires bi-directionalcommunications, and cannot readily be adjusted to compensate for changesin the communication interfaces and interface hardware of the monitoreddevices.

In addition to monitoring usage of computers and computer peripheraldevices, it is desirable to be able to remotely activate and deactivatesuch devices. Current technology employing alternating current (“A/C”)lines is deficient in that it does not provide bi-directional feedback.

Known computer rental outlets (e.g., such as Kinkos™) depend uponactivation inputs from human employees and, therefore, operate atgreater expense. Accordingly, it is also desirable to provide a systemwhich automates the activation and deactivation of electrically powereddevices. Although it is known to functionally connect an electricallypowered device to a mechanism for receiving payment, the art is devoidof a self-service system which allows multiple users to simultaneouslyselect, activate, and prepay for the use of groups of electricallypowered devices.

One method of charging for the use of electrically powered equipmentsuch as a copier or a computer is by the amount of time that the deviceis used. However, one problem with charging a user based on the amount adevice is used is that if such device hangs up, jams, or is otherwisenot operating properly, the user will still be charged for the time.

Accordingly, there is a need in the technology for a method andapparatus to automatically monitor and detect an abnormal/catastrophiccondition of an electronic device through the usage of power in order tosuspend billing of a user's account during the time period which theelectronic device is not in proper operation.

It is further desirable to provide a method and apparatus for selecting,monitoring, and controlling electrically powered devices and theirinternal control circuits.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one embodiment, the present invention is an apparatus which includesan electrically powered device having a key operating line and switchingcontrol circuitry to control usage of the electrically powered device byinterrupting continuity of the key operating line.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a system for interactively selecting,activating and monitoring the usage of groups of computers and computerperipheral devices according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional relationship betweenthe central controller and a plurality of stations adapted to receiveelectrically powered devices.

FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of a stand-alone embodiment of thesystem for interactively, activating and monitoring the usage ofselected computer and computer peripheral devices.

FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the system shown in FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 shows the interactive user interface of the present invention.

FIGS. 6A and 6B show an operational flowchart of a controller interfacesoftware module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 7A and 7B show an electrical schematic of the communication linkcircuitry of one interactive electrical device selecting and activatingsystem.

FIG. 8 shows an electrical schematic of the switching control circuitryof one interactive electrical device selecting and activating system.

FIG. 9 is a functional block diagram of an alternative embodiment of thesystem 30.

FIG. 10 illustrates a system, in accordance with an alternativeimplementation of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of a system formonitoring the status of and controlling one or more electricallypowered devices.

FIG. 12 illustrates an exemplary power profile for a laser printer.

FIG. 13 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary process of thesoftware module.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary system 30 for interactively selecting andactivating one or more electrically powered devices. In this embodiment,the system 30 includes one or more computers 40 and/or one or morecomputer peripheral devices (e.g., printer 42). While the exemplarysystem 30 includes computers, computer peripherals, and/or other devicestypically found in an office, it is contemplated that the one or moreelectrically powered devices could include appliances such as, forexample, a television or coffee maker.

The system 30 additionally includes a display 44 which comprises a videomonitor as shown in this embodiment. The system 30 may also include amechanism for receiving payment, such as, for example, a card reader 46for obtaining information from a credit card, pre-paid debit card, smartcard, membership card, room key, or any other type of card.Alternatively, the mechanism for receiving payment can take another formsuch as a coin and/or currency receiving mechanism, a biometricrecognition system linked to a database of personal or business accountsto verify characteristics of the user (e.g., fingerprint, retinal scan,voice recognition, etc.).

A first key aspect of the present invention is that the system 30provides its users with a self-service means for selecting andactivating particular groups of electrical devices from a plurality ofelectrical devices. One or several controllers and a switching mechanismare required to implement the system 30. In the exemplary embodimentshown in FIG. 1, the display 44 presents a sequence of menus whichinteractively prompt a user of the system 30 to provide user inputswhich, for example, designate one or more (or a selected group of)devices from a computers 40 and computer peripheral devices 42. At leastone of the aforementioned controllers executes a computer executableprogram or programs for providing user interface control signals to thedisplay 44. The switching mechanism also receives switching controlsignals generated by execution of a computer executable program by atleast one of the controllers. In one embodiment, a computer executableprogram is also employed to control a means for providing communicationlinks between printer ports and a printer. As discussed below in greaterdetail, the system 30 may include additional computer executableprograms providing communications interfaces to other computers,intelligent peripherals (e.g., payment receiving mechanisms),telecommunications hardware (e.g., telephones, facsimile machines).

Another key aspect of the present invention is that the system 30 alsoincludes interconnection hardware and the communications interfacesnecessary for a user to “dock” a personal computer 32 or otherelectrically powered device to the system 30. As discussed below ingreater detail, a controller or processor of the system 30 controls asequence of interactive visual menus presented at the display 44 therebyallowing the user to select and activate a group of electrically powereddevices. More specifically, the user selects a group of “stations” (towhich electrically powered devices may be, but are not necessarily,connected). In one embodiment, a “station” is defined as a power outletthat the system 30 is capable of selecting and providing power to,combined with a communications interface that is controlled andaccessible by a controller or processor of the system 30. For example, auser may “dock” a notebook style personal computer 32 to the system 30by selecting the appropriate station at the display 44. The system 30executes software which applies power to the power outlets of theselected stations and enables the communications interface at theselected stations. The communications interface hardware at the stationscomprises connectors facilitating operable connection to currentlyfavored computers and computer peripheral devices.

The system 30 may include redundant computer and computer peripheraldevices so that more than one user can simultaneously create, activateand use “custom offices”. Accordingly, the system 30 intended toaccommodate more than one user can have one or more display 44. Thesoftware executed by the system 30 monitors the availability of thecomputer and peripheral devices and provides a prospective user with anindication that a specified device is unavailable when no such device iscurrently available for use. As may be readily appreciated, variousadvanced features may be implemented including, but not limited to,allowing a prospective user to reserve the next available device of apresently unavailable type of electrically powered device. In anembodiment with a payment receiving mechanism 46, the system 30 executessoftware which allows more than one user to make payment at the sametime.

As shown in FIG. 1, the various electrically powered devices may bepositioned in distinct areas separated by partition members 48. As maybe readily appreciated, the computer and computer peripheral devices maybe segregated in a manner which anticipates typically selectedcombinations of office equipment.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional relationship between acentral controller 50 and a plurality of stations adapted to receiveelectrically powered devices. By way of example, the central controller50 is functionally interconnected to a station 52 and is adapted toprovide power and a communication link to a facsimile machine. As shownin FIG. 2, the central controller 50 provides power and communicationsinterfaces to a station 54 which, for example, is adapted to receive acontroller interface computer. A station 56 is similarly controlled bythe controller 50 which determines when power is made available to acopier and provides a communication link to the copier. A station 58can, for example, provide power and communications links to anelectrically interconnected computer and printer which have beenconfigured to be used together. A station 60 is similarly configured toprovide power and communications links to a modem. Additional stationssuch as stations 62, 64 can also be included in the system 30. Thestations 62, 64 allow other computer and computer peripheral devices tobe docked to and used with the system 30.

In this embodiment, the central controller 50 additionally supports thesystem task of determining whether or not payment has been made by aprospective user of the system. For example, the central controller 50receives inputs from a credit card reader. As shown in FIG. 2, a printer66 is also electrically connected to the controller 50. The printer 66may be designated as a dedicated printer which, for example, receivescontrol signals from the central controller 50 and is only used to printreceipts for payment or prepayment by the user. In another embodiment,an additional printer (not shown), in addition to or in lieu of printer66, may be placed at a remote location such as a front desk or cashier'scounter for printing receipts, statements, etc. The electricalconnection between printer 66 and/or the second printer and thecontroller 50 may be wired or wireless via radio frequency (“RF”)modules.

FIG. 9 is a functional block diagram of an alternative embodiment of thesystem 30. In this embodiment, the controller 50 provides user interfacecontrol signals to a touch screen display. The system 30 also includes aswitch box 68 which receives switching control signals from thecontroller 50 along control signal path 70. It is contemplated that, inanother embodiment, the switching control signals from the controller 50to the switch box 68 may be wireless via RF modules. As shown in FIG. 9,the system 30 also includes a connection link switch box 72 which, forexample, selectively provides communication links between one of theprinter ports (of the controller 50 and the peripheral computer atstation 58) and the peripheral printer at station 58. The operationalaspects of the switch boxes 68, 72 are discussed below in greaterdetail. It should also be appreciated that the two switch boxes 68, 72can be configured within a single switch box. As discussed above, thecontroller 50 can also be adapted to support various telephonic datacommunication interfaces such as a charge-a-call phone line interface74, a coinless pay phone equivalent.

The system 30 may optionally include a printer 34 located at a secure,remote location such as a front desk of a hotel. In this way, a user mayuse a room key having a magnetic strip to pay for usage of the system30, in which case the receipt will be printed at the front desk. Thehotel personnel can then add the cost of usage of the system 30 to theuser's room bill. Alternatively, the remote printer 34 may be located ata centralized location for billing members who use member cards. Theseconnections made accomplished via wired or wireless methods.

FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of a stand-alone embodiment of thesystem 30. FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the system shown in FIG.3. The stand-alone version of the system includes a pedestal unit 76with a plurality of shelves 78 upon which computer peripheral devicesare placed. The controller 50 and switch boxes 68, 72 can be physicallypositioned within the pedestal unit 76 or, alternatively, remotelylocated. Exemplary computer peripheral devices include laser printers 80and a facsimile machine 82. As seen in FIG. 4, the system 30 includes apower strip 84 which is electrically connected to and controlled by theswitch box 68. Alternatively, the power strip 84 may be positionedwithin the pedestal unit 76 or at some other location which is notreadily accessible by users. Although the stand-alone unit is shown in akiosk configuration, it should be appreciated that other types offurniture, equipment bays, etc., may be employed particularly if thecomputers and computer peripheral devices need to be more optimallysecured to prevent their theft or attempts by users to manually overridecontrol signals from the controller 50. Alternatively, the controller 50may be operated remotely via conventional networking schemes using thesame interface methods. Conventional networking schemes include, forexample, the Microsoft™ Windows™ network, Ethernet network, a dial-upmodem (e.g., via telephone line), and the like. In addition, thecontroller 50 may be operated remotely through the Internet.

As best seen in FIG. 5, an interactive user interface is presented atthe display 44. A main menu display 86 is first presented to aprospective user of the system 30. The user interface control signalsinitiate a sequence of interactive displays. The interactive displaysinclude various fields providing information or facilitating userinputs. One means for receiving user inputs is a touch screen as shownin FIG. 5. Information display fields 88 can, for example, be employedto provide a prospective user with information about the cost per minutefor using various computer and computer peripheral devices. Aninformation icon 90 initiates execution of computer executable programswhich provide the user with information relevant to selected orindicated aspects of the system 30. Similarly, a help icon 92 ispresented to the user and initiates the execution of an executableprogram or programs which provide a user with additional informationexplaining how devices are selected, activated, prepayment is made,receipts obtained, etc.

In an exemplary system 30, the available computer and computerperipheral devices include a computer, printer, facsimile machine andcopier. These electrically powered devices are respectively selected bypressing device selection icons 92, 94, 96, 98. However, the exemplarysystem 30 may include other devices such as, for example, a scanner,fax/modem for access to the Internet, etc. The main menu screen 86additionally includes a device selection icon 100 which, when depressedby a user, initiates activation of a computer, printer, facsimilemachine and copier as if all of the device selection icons 92, 94, 96,98 had been depressed. The main menu screen 86 additionally includescredit card designation icons 102 which facilitate payment or prepaymentby the user.

FIGS. 6A and 6B show an operational flowchart of a controller interfacesoftware module according to one embodiment of the present invention. Amain display menu executable block 110 facilitates the display ofcurrently entered user information, accrued charges and operationalstatus information of the various computer and computer peripheraldevices. Additionally, executable block 110 provides for theresponsivity of portions of the touch screen for the purpose ofselecting electrically powered devices for activation or deactivation.

Executable block 112 responds to user inputs. If the user provides an“activate equipment” input, the executable program is redirected towardexecutable block 114. If the user provides a “deactivate equipment”input, the executable program is redirected toward executable programblock 116 (FIG. 6B). Additionally, a user may provide an “otherfunctions” input. In response to such an input, the executable programis redirected toward executable program block 118 as shown in FIG. 6A.The “other functions” menu block 118 can be programmed to provide avariety of advertising displays, promotional offers and telephone andinterconnect connections and services as well as on-line supportfeatures.

Another key aspect of the present invention is that the system 30 isconfigured to operate as a self-service facility. As such, sufficientinformation must be provided to prospective users. When execution of the“activate equipment” executable block 114 is initiated, a brief videoclip illustrating how a credit card is used to prepay is shown to theuser. In addition or alternatively, the controller interface computerrequests the user to input credit card information such as the accountnumber and expiration date.

As shown in FIG. 6A, the controller 50 processes the next user input atexecutable block 120 which either receives the credit card informationentered or cancels the transaction depending upon the user input. If thetransaction is canceled, the executable program is redirected to the“main display menu” executable block 110. If the user elects to continuewith the transaction, the executable program is redirected to a “processcredit card hold via modem” executable block 122. At a “user input”executable block 124, the user is given an opportunity to approvecharging the transaction to the credit card after the transaction hasbeen approved or to cancel the transaction. After a user approves atransaction, a “disclosure statement” executable block 126 controls thedisplay of pertinent limitations and other information to the user. Forexample, information may be provided to the user that a selectedcomputer or computer peripheral device may only be reserved for up toone hour. Other displays may also be presented such as credit card termsand conditions and disclosures or other information that should or must(required by an applicable law or regulation) be presented to the user.

After the disclosure statement is presented to the user, the executableprogram is redirected to an executable program block 128 which controlsthe generation of control signals including switching control signalswhich are provided to the switch box 68. In one embodiment, the controlsignals additionally include communication link control signals which,for example, are provided to the switching box 72 to establishcommunication links between the various electrically powered devices.The executable block 128 additionally monitors usage of the activatedcomputer and computer peripheral devices. The usage is monitored so thatthe users are appropriately billed after the electrically controlleddevices are deactivated and to assure that any predetermined usagelimitations such as a maximum time duration are not exceeded.

With reference to FIG. 6B, a “maximum duration exceeded” executableblock 130 displays a warning when the maximum duration has been exceededand, in one embodiment, also displays an option to continue usage. A“user input” executable block 132 redirects the executable programdepending upon the user input provided. If the user provides an inputindicating a desire to continue using the electrically powered devices,the user is prompted to verify previous inputs and/or provide additionaluser inputs and the activated devices remain activated or arereactivated as the case may be. As may be readily appreciated, thecontroller interface software module could also be programmed to provideusers with options to add or delete various peripheral devices when ausage session comes to an end or prior to that time. The equipment usagemonitoring feature may result in the recordation of the exact amount oftime any particular computer or computer peripheral device is activated,round to a nearest minimum time unit (e.g., 10 minutes) or simply bill auser for an amount of time no less than the amount of time reserved andno greater than the maximum amount of time allowed.

If a session comes to an end and a user fails to provide a response, theexecutable program is redirected toward executable block 134 whichgenerates the appropriate switching control signals to deactivate ordisconnect power sources. It should be appreciated that the deactivatedpower sources are those which are connected to computer and computerperipheral equipment previously activated by the particular user who hasfailed to respond. The controller software may be programmed to providethe user with a predetermined amount of time to respond (e.g., oneminute) before power is removed from the equipment. In the system 30, ausage session is prepaid so that human system attendants areunnecessary. Furthermore, prepayment makes it convenient for a user torapidly terminate a session and receive a receipt without having to waitfor credit card approval, credit line verification or the like. Atexecutable block 134, the receipt is printed without account informationto protect a user who is suddenly called away from a usage session.

When a user provides a “deactivate equipment” input, the executableprogram is directed toward the executable block 116 as shown in FIG. 6B.After the executable block 116 is initiated, the controller 50calculates and sends control signals facilitating the display of updatedcharges. The user is also asked to confirm that deactivation is desired.After the user responds to the request for deactivation confirmation, anexecutable block 136 either confirms deactivation or cancels the requestfor deactivation and redirects the executable program such that deviceusage will continue.

When the user provides an input confirming deactivation, a “printing ofreceipt options” executable block 138 is initiated. The executable block138 presents the user with the option of receiving a receipt with orwithout personal account information or, alternatively, the option ofreceiving no receipt. The user's response is processed by a “user input”executable block 140 after which the executable program is redirected toan executable block 142 as shown in FIG. 63. The executable block 142controls the printing of receipts; and thereafter sends control signalsto remove power from the appropriate electrically powered devices viathe switch box 68.

FIGS. 7A and 7B show an electrical schematic of communication linkcircuitry 150 of a system 30. The communication link circuitry 150 maybe, but is not necessarily, located within the switch box 72 (FIG. 9).Generally the communication link circuitry 150 acts as a switchdetermining which of several communications ports is electricallyconnected to a peripheral device such as a printer. Referring again toFIG. 9, the controller 50 and the peripheral computer at station 58 bothinclude printer ports. The peripheral printer at station 58 is connectedto one of the aforementioned printer ports via the communication linkcircuitry 150. Parallel printer port connections 152 (FIG. 7A) andparallel printer port connections 154 (FIG. 7B) are respectivelyconnected to two different computers such as the controller 50 and theperipheral computer at station 58 via currently favored connectionhardware, e.g., conventional 25-pin D-connectors. Parallel printer portconnections 156 (FIG. 7A) are connected, for example, to the peripheralprinter at station 58 (FIG. 9). Referring again to FIGS. 7A and 7B, theunidirectional buffer circuitry 158 may be replaced with bidirectionalrelay circuitry to facilitate bi-directional communications. Referringto FIG. 7B, protection circuitry 160 may also be included.

FIG. 8 shows an electrical schematic of switching control circuitry 170according to one system 30. Connections 172 are electrically connectedto a control port of the controller 50. In one embodiment, 8 bits ofdata are provided to the connections 172 at a printer port of thecontroller 50 which has been programmed to function as a control port.The 8 bits of data are provided to a data latch integrated circuit 174which, for example, comprises a standard 74LS373 integrated circuitchip. The outputs of the data latch integrated circuit 174 are providedto analog transistor circuitry 176 which provide inputs to relays (notshown) for controlling the activation and deactivation of the stations.The individual transistors 178 comprise, for example, a conventional2N2222 transistor. As shown in FIG. 8, light emitting diodes (“LEDs”)may be provided if desired.

FIG. 10 illustrates a system 200, in accordance with an alternativeimplementation of the present invention. In this implementation, thesystem 200 interactively selects and activates key operating controllines of electrically powered devices (e.g., computer and computerperipheral devices) by maintaining or interrupting continuity of suchcontrol lines in addition to or in lieu of selecting and activatingpower to such devices. Referring to FIG. 10, the system 200 includes thetouch screen controller 50 which controls the switch box 68 throughcontrol signals along control signal path 70. The system 200 furtherincludes a computer 210 which is coupled to and/or controlled by an I/Odevice 212 through one or more key operating control lines 214 and 216.In general, a key operating control line includes a signal line whichmay be external or internal to an electrically powered device andcontrols the functionality of the device, either alone or in combinationwith other key operating control lines.

For example, the I/O device 212 may be a keyboard with the key operatingcontrol line 216 being a power or communication line from the keyboardto the computer 210. The key operating line 216 couples the I/O device212 to the computer 210 through an activator device 218 (e.g., a relay,combinational logic, etc.). The activator device 218 is controlled bythe switch box 68 via communication line 202 which selectivelyactivates/deactivates the activator device 218 for maintaining orinterrupting continuity of the key operating line 216 from the I/Odevice 212 to the computer 210.

It is contemplated that the I/O device 212 may be a mouse, monitor,modem or any other device used for controlling the computer 210 or aperipheral of the computer. For example, at least one activator device218 may be coupled between a transmit and/or receive line between thecomputer 210 and a modem to maintain or interrupt continuity of anInternet session. It is further contemplated that the switch box 68 maycontrol more than one I/O device for a single electrically powereddevice such as a computer. For instance, if a session comes to an endand a user fails to respond, the controller 50 may control the switchbox 68 to interrupt continuity of a keyboard, mouse, and/or monitor suchthat the user is precluded from controlling the computer 210.

In addition or in the alternative, the system 200 controls a peripheraldevice 220 (e.g., a copier) via communication line 204 byactivating/deactivating a control device (e.g., a relay) for maintainingor interrupting continuity of one or more key operating control lines ofthe peripheral device 220. In one embodiment, a control device 224 iscoupled between key operating control lines 226 and 228 of a counter (or“Auditron counter”) 222. When activated, the control device 224 providescontinuity between key operating control lines 226 and 228 which allowsthe peripheral device 220 to operate. When deactivated by the switch box68, the control device 224 interrupts continuity of key operatingcontrol lines 226 and 228 which prevents the peripheral device 220 fromoperating.

Alternatively, a control device 234 may be coupled between a sensor 232and the input to a controller 236. In this manner, the control device234 may be controlled by the switch box 68 to mimic the sensor 232. Thesensor 232 may be one of a number of key operating sensors of a copier,for example, such as a paper out, toner out, door cover ajar, or paperjam sensor, etc., all of which cause the copier to halt operation. Whencontinuity is to be interrupted, the switch box 68 deactivates thecontrol device 234 to indicate to the microcontroller 236 via keyoperating control line 238 that there is a halt condition, therebyinterrupting the operation of the peripheral device. Through thiscontrol mechanism, the continuity of the peripheral device can bemaintained or interrupted without cycling power on and off to suchdevice. The advantage of controlling continuity of key operating controllines is that electrically powered devices do not have to be turned offand on.

It is further contemplated that the switch box 68 may control a vendingmachine 240 via communication lines 206. The vending machine 240includes a plurality of motors 242 for controlling a correspondingplurality of coils 244 for dispensing various items. A transformer mayoptionally be placed in between each communication line 206 and eachmotor 242 in the case of a direct current motor. When a motor isactivated by the switch box 68, its corresponding coil initiates apredetermined cycle of rotation to dispense one item. The touch screencontroller 50 may execute a controller interface software module forproviding a series of menus where a user can select one or more of anumber of items from the vending machine 240. The items may include, forexample, common “snacks”, office supplies (e.g., paper, pen, floppydisk, etc.), and the like.

In an alternative embodiment, the system 30 or the system 200 may beused as a centralized system to control other types of electronicallypowered devices. For example, the system may be implemented in aLaundromat for centrally controlling washing machines, dryers, etc., ina self-service car wash for centrally controlling car-wash stations, orin an arcade for centrally controlling video games, amusement games,etc.

It is further contemplated that the system 200 may be used to controlthe usage of software on a selected computer via controlling a softwarekey (hereinafter referred to as a “Dongle”). This mechanism allows auser to be charged on a per-software basis (e.g., for using a wordprocessor, spread sheet program, etc.) rather than a per-computer basis.This can be accomplished, for example, by connecting a Dongle to an I/Oport of the computer (e.g., printer port), placing an activator device(e.g., relay) in series with a key operating line of the Dongle, andcontrolling the relay by the switch box 68. Thus, the controller 50 maycontrol usage of software programs by maintaining and/or interruptingcontinuity of the Dongle. A script program may be written so that eachapplication software program that is selected by the user first checksthe status of a Dongle and, if the relay is activated by the switch box68 (and the controller 50), indicating that the user has paid to use thesoftware program, the software program executes properly and may be usedby the user.

A further aspect of the present invention is an efficient andeasy-to-implement method and apparatus for monitoring the status of andcontrolling such electronic devices. A special circuit is provided whichprovides measurement of the power (amperage) utilized by each electronicdevice. By monitoring power usage, the power usage profile of eachspecific electronic device can be forwarded to the touch screencontroller 50. The power usage profiles are then analyzed by softwarerunning on the controller 50 to determine the operating status of theelectronic device. This may be accomplished by using a standard databaseof power usage profiles to identify normal type operations and abnormal,catastrophic types of activity exhibited by the electronic devices.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of a system 300for monitoring the status of and controlling one or more electricallypowered devices. Referring to FIG. 11, the system 300 includes the touchscreen controller 50 which is coupled to the switch box 68 by way ofsignal path 70 which may be an I/O port, parallel port, etc. The switchbox 68 is coupled to a relay 312 for activating and deactivating thesame. The relay 312, when activated, couples a power controller 318(e.g., for supplying A/C power) to an electrically powered device 320(e.g., computer, copier, fax, and any other electrically powereddevice). The device 320 is coupled to the relay 312 through a current tovoltage converter 314. Intone embodiment, the current to voltageconverter 314 is an inductive ammeter. The current to voltage converters314 is also coupled to a channel of an analog to digital (“A/D”)converter 316 via signal line 315. In one embodiment, when the relay 312is activated by the switch box 68, the current to voltage converter 314outputs a voltage in the millivolt range that corresponds to the poweroutput of the electrically powered devices 320. It is contemplated thatthe system 300 includes a plurality of such relays and current tovoltage converters for monitoring a corresponding plurality ofelectronically powered devices.

The A/D converter 316 is coupled to the controller 50 by way of signalpath 305 (e.g., I/O port, parallel port, etc.). When the device 320 ison (i.e., by activating the relay 312), the power usage of the device istransferred by the current to voltage converter 314 to the A/D converter316. The A/D converter 316 converts the analog voltage into a digitalstream and provides it to the controller 50.

In one embodiment, the switch box 68, relay 312, current to voltageconverter 314, A/D converter 316, and the power controller 318 are allcontained within an electronic switch box interface 310. In anotherembodiment, it is contemplated that the A/D converter 316 may bedirectly coupled to the bus of the controller 50 by way of, for example,a Peripheral Component Interconnect (“PCI”) form factor card. Theelectrically powered devices include, for example, a computer, copier,fax machine, laser printer, other types of peripheral devices,appliances (e.g., coffee maker, rice cooker, television, washingmachine, etc.), and the like. In yet another embodiment, the switch box68 may be replaced with a digital to analog (“D/A”) converter which iscontained on the same board as the A/D converter 316.

The controller 50 includes a software module that provides the userinterface for the operation and use of the system. In addition torecording user requests on the operation of the peripheral devices, thesoftware module also determines the operating status and on/off controlto the peripheral devices. The software module further allows the userto specify the time, duration, and conditions within which to turnon/off a selected electrically powered device. The conditions for on/offoperations may include specific predetermined time and date, atemperature light sensor, by way of remote control via wireless ortelephone access.

The monitoring of the status of an electrically powered device isaccomplished by recording and analyzing the digital output from the A/Dconverter 316 for a particular electrically powered device and comparingit to standard operating profiles for such device. A database ofstandard operating profiles, representing both regular operatingprofiles and abnormal/catastrophic (i.e., erroneous) operating profiles,may be maintained in a memory unit (not shown) of the controller 50. Thesoftware module continuously monitors the power profiles of theactivated devices. If a device exhibits a power profile that representsa catastrophic/halt condition (i.e., a paper jam), the software modulesuspends charging a user for the time that such device is halted.

A learning mode is provided so that the controller 50 can be adapted tomonitoring new electrically powered devices which are plugged into thesystem. The learning process includes establishing a baseline powerconsumption and typical operating conditions of the new electricallypowered devices. More importantly, abnormal/catastrophic (i.e.,erroneous) operating conditions are simulated and recorded onto thedatabase. These power consumption profiles are the basis for thesoftware module to determine the appropriate on/off state for theelectrically powered device. The software module includes a userinterface which allows programming the on/off of the peripheral devicesvia user specified conditions. In addition, the software module includesan algorithm which records power utilization profiles and makescomparisons with an established database of power utilization profiles.

FIG. 12 illustrates an exemplary power profile for a laser printer.Referring to FIG. 12, the power profile shows time periods 410 where thelaser printer is printing. At time periods 420, the laser printer is inidle mode, as shown by the periodic spikes 425. At time period 430, thelaser printer has a paper jam. During this unique period, the laserprinter draws minimal power and has no significant spikes. Thus, if apaper jam occurs, the controller 50 will detect a halt condition bycomparing the stored profile in the database with the actual profile ofthe laser printer or by detecting that the power usage fails to riseabove a predetermined threshold for a predetermined time period.

FIG. 13 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary process 500 of thesoftware module. Referring to FIG. 13, the process 500 includes alearning mode and an operating mode (default). At block 502 if thelearning mode is selected (e.g., during setup of a device by a systemadministrator), the process proceeds to block 504 where a power usageprofile is established for the selected device. In one embodiment, thepower usage profile is a function of amperage and time. The power usageprofile of the selected device includes, for example, the power usageprofile during normal operating conditions, abnormal conditions (e.g.,paper jam), and catastrophic conditions. Then at block 506, the powerusage profile of the selected device is stored in a database. At block508, if the learning mode is complete, the process jumps back to block502, otherwise the process jumps to block 504 for establishing the powerusage profile for another device.

At step 502, if the operating mode is selected, the process 500 performsinitialization at block 512. Thereafter, at block 514, the process 500detects a valid method of payment (e.g., a credit card swipe), turns onan electrically powered device selected by the user, and initiates abilling timer. At block 516 a determination is made as to whether theuser is done with the usage of the electrically powered device, e.g., bythe user pressing an “END” button on a touch screen or the time periodselected runs out. If the user is done, the process jumps to block 528where the billing timer is stopped and power removed to the device oralternatively the continuity of a key operating control line isinterrupted.

Conversely, if the user is not done, the process proceeds to block 518where the power usage is monitored and compared with the stored powerusage profile of the device. At step 520, the power usage profile of thedevice is determined. If the device is in normal operation, the processjumps back up to block 516. If an abnormal condition is detected, theprocess proceeds to block 522 where billing is suspended and a warningmessage is displayed. Then, at block 524 the device is monitored and thebilling timer is resumed when the device is back to normal condition.The process then jumps to block 516. If at block 520, a catastrophiccondition is detected, then the process proceeds to block 526 where awarning message is displayed. The process continues to block 528 wherethe billing timer is stopped and the device is shut down.

The monitoring of the power usage profile of an electrically powereddevice provides the advantage of detecting an abnormal/catastrophicoperation of the electrically powered device (e.g., when a copier has apaper jam) and automatically suspending billing for usage of thatelectrically powered device during such abnormal catastrophic condition.

While certain exemplary embodiments have been described and shown in theaccompanying drawings, it is to be understood that such embodiments aremerely illustrative of and not restrictive on the broad invention, andthat this invention not be limited to the specific constructions andarrangements shown and described, since various other modifications mayoccur to those ordinarily skilled in the art.

1. A method comprising: monitoring an output of an electrically powereddevice; and comparing the output to a database of operating profiles forthe electrically powered device to detect an abnormal condition and toadjust billing charges when the electrically powered device is in theabnormal condition, the database of operating profiles includesplurality of power usage profiles being regular operating power profilesand abnormal operating power profiles, each abnormal operating powerprofile to denote an abnormal condition.
 2. The method of claim 1,wherein each power usage profile is a function of amperage and time. 3.The method of claim 1, wherein the first condition is a catastrophiccondition.
 4. A software module embodied for execution by a controller,the software module comprising: software to monitor an output of anelectrically powered device; and software to compare the output to aplurality of power usage profiles for the electrically powered device todetect a first condition and to adjust billing charges when theelectrically powered device is in the first condition, the electricallypowered device is placed in the first condition in response to anabnormal operating condition.
 5. The software module of claim 4 furthercomprising software to record the plurality of power usage profiles. 6.The software module of claim 4, wherein the electrically powered deviceis an appliance.
 7. The software module of claim 4 further comprisingsoftware to record the plurality of power usage profiles.
 8. Thesoftware module of claim 4, wherein each power usage profile is afunction of amperage and time.
 9. The software module of claim 4 furthercomprising a user interface software to enable programmability ofconditions to adjust billing charges for usage of the electricallypowered device including the first condition.
 10. The software module ofclaim 4, wherein the electrically powered device is a printer.
 11. Thesoftware module of claim 10, wherein the abnormal condition is a paperjam.
 12. A method comprising: monitoring an output of an electricallypowered device; and comparing the output to a plurality of operatingprofiles associated with the electrically powered device to detect anabnormal condition and to adjust billing charges when the electricallypowered device is in the abnormal condition, the plurality of operatingprofiles includes a plurality of power usage profiles includes anabnormal operating power profile of the electrically powered device todenot the abnormal condition.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein theplurality of operating profiles includes a plurality of power usageprofiles being regular operating power profiles of the electriallypowered device and the abnormal operating power profile.
 14. The methodof claim 12, wherein each power usage profile is a function of amperageand time.
 15. The method of claim 12, wherein the monitoring of theoutput of an electrically powered device is a monitoring of the outputof a printer.
 16. The method of claim 12, wherein the monitoring of theoutput of an electrically powered device is a monitoring of the outputof an appliance.